In recent weeks, we’ve seen a number of top MBA programs contacting applicants who had expressed interest in the school to notify them that applications would be reviewed even after the last admissions deadline passed. Here’s one example of such an invitation from UCLA Anderson:
—– Original Message —–
From: UCLA Anderson MBA Program
Sent : Wednesday, April 20, 2005 2:38 PM
Subject: Final Round Applications
Dear xxx,
Although the 4th round application deadline has passed, we are continuing to
review appplications submitted, in the order they are received.
If you have only recently begun your online application, or started one some
time ago but have yet to submit, we encourage you to complete and submit it as
soon as possible.
We look forward to receiving and reviewing your application!
warmest regards,
UCLA Anderson MBA Program
We’ve seen this same strategy being adopted by Darden (as reported last month in this blog) and Duke over the past month or so. In light of falling application volume – our sources report that with the exception of Wharton, whose rate has remained flat, many of the top-tier schools are down anywhere from 5-15% this year – accepting applications after the deadline must seem like an attractive way to increase selectivity statistics and catch any exceptional last minute candidates.
